Tourism License in Dubai, UAE

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UAE is a leading tourism hub and has a high demand for tourism-related businesses

Tourism License in Dubai, and Across UAE

UAE is a leading tourism hub and has a high demand for tourism business licenses in the region. A tourism license in Dubai and across the UAE is a requirement for businesses involved in the travel and tourism sector.

From tour operators to travel agencies, having a tourism license in Dubai ensures that your business is operating legally and upholding the standards set by the Dubai Tourism Authority.

This official document, issued by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), authorizes your business to operate legally within the emirate, offering tourism-related services like:

Tour operations (inbound, outbound, and domestic)
Travel agency services (ticketing, visa assistance, travel packages)
Hospitality management (hotels, resorts, guest houses)
Leisure activities (desert safaris, cruises, cultural tours)
Event management (conferences, exhibitions, weddings)

So, let’s explore the process of obtaining a tourism license in Dubai and the benefits it can bring to businesses in the tourism industry.

What is a Tourism License in Dubai, UAE?

A Tourism License in Dubai is a permit required to operate a business involved in the tourism industry. There are different types of tourism licenses available, depending on the specific activities your business will conduct.

Types of Tourism Licenses:

Inbound Tour Operator: Allows organizing tours for tourists visiting Dubai, including arranging exhibitions and conventions.

Outbound Tour Operator: Allows organizing trips outside of Dubai, including international tours.

Travel Agency: Permits booking flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements for clients.

To obtain a Tourism License in UAE, you will need to register your business with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and meet their requirements which typically include submitting various documents, paying fees, and potentially having a business plan reviewed. The processing time and cost can vary depending on the type of license you apply for.

Why Do You Need a Dubai Tourism License?

There are a few key reasons why you would need a Dubai Tourism License:

1. Legality

Operating a tourism business in Dubai without a license is illegal. The license acts as a permit from the government, allowing you to function within the legal framework.

2. Credibility

A Dubai Tourism License signifies that the authorities have approved your business and adhere to their standards. This can give you a significant edge over unlicensed competitors, as tourists are more likely to trust a licensed agency.

3. Growth Potential

With a license, you can expand your services, cater to a wider audience, and unlock new revenue streams.

4. Access to Resources

Licensed businesses enjoy exclusive benefits like attending industry events, networking opportunities, and marketing support from DTCM.

5. Consumer Protection

The licensing process helps ensure that tourism businesses meet specific standards. This protects consumers from fraudulent or unsafe practices within the industry.

How to obtain a Tourism License in Dubai, UAE?

To get a tourism license in Dubai involves several steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Determine the Business Activity

Identify the specific tourism activity you want to conduct, such as travel agency, tour operator, or event management. Each activity might have different requirements and regulations.

2. Choose Your Jurisdiction

Mainland License: This grants you access to the entire UAE market, and full ownership, but may have higher setup costs.

Free Zone License: This offers faster processing and more ownership flexibility (100% foreign ownership allowed in some zones). However, it may restrict your ability to operate directly within mainland Dubai.

3. Select a Company Name

Choose a name that complies with Dubai’s naming regulations. You can check initial availability with the Department of Economic Development (DED).

4. Decide Legal Structure

Select the appropriate legal structure for your business. Common structures include:

Sole Proprietorship
Limited Liability Company (LLC) – most popular
Branch Office

5. Gather Required Documents

Prepare the necessary documents as per the DET’s requirements. These typically include:

Completed application form
Passport copies of shareholders/owners
Manager’s qualifications and work experience certificates
Clean criminal record certificates for owner and manager
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Civil Aviation Authority (for specific activities)
Business plan (might be required)

6. Business Registration

Once approved, register your business with the relevant authorities. This includes registering with the Department of Economic Development and potentially the chosen Free Zone Authority.

Depending on your business activity, you might need additional approvals from other government departments, such as:

Civil Defense
Dubai Municipality
Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)

7. Secure an Office Space

Secure physical office space if opting for a Mainland License. The DET may require a lease agreement during inspections.

8. Receive Your Dubai Tourism License

After payment, you will receive your tourism license. You can now legally operate your tourism business in Dubai.

9. Open a Corporate Bank Account

Set up a corporate bank account to handle your business transactions.

Travel and Tourism License Cost in Dubai

The average cost of a tourism license in Dubai starts from AED 14,999*, but it can vary depending on factors like license type, company structure, office space, and additional fees.

Factors Affecting your License Cost:

Type of license: Different license types have different fees.
Company structure: Mainland licenses typically cost more than free zone licenses.
Office space: The annual cost of your office space will be factored into the license fee.
Additional fees: Expect miscellaneous fees for things like application processing, bank opening fees, and security deposits.

To get a more accurate estimate of the travel & tourism license cost in the UAE for your specific situation, contact Shuraa Business Setup for a free consultation. They can assess your needs and provide a customized quote.

Benefits of Obtaining a Tourism License in Dubai

There are several benefits to obtaining a Dubai Tourism License, including:

1. Access to a Lucrative Market

Dubai is a global tourism hub attracting millions of visitors annually. A license grants you access to this vast market and the potential for significant revenue generation.

2. Diverse Activities

The Dubai Tourism License allows you to engage in a wide range of activities, including travel agency services, tour operations, and event management.

3. Global Recognition

A Tourism License adds a stamp of legitimacy to your business, making it internationally recognized and respected.

4. Government Support and Regulations

Dubai’s government actively promotes tourism and offers a supportive business environment. The regulations ensure a level playing field and protect consumers.

5. Tax Advantages

Dubai boasts a tax-friendly environment for businesses, with very limited corporate income tax for most companies. This can significantly improve your profit margins.

New Regulations for Dubai Tourism License

The requirement for a bank guarantee ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 200,000 has been eliminated for certain operations like inbound/outbound tour operators and travel agencies. This significantly reduces the initial investment needed.

The previous minimum requirement of 300 square feet for office space has also been eliminated.

Experience letters and educational certificates for managers in the same field may no longer be mandatory depending on the specific license type.

We strongly recommended to check with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or simply consulting business setup experts at Shuraa for the latest information on any updates to Dubai Tourism License regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

It takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks to get a tourism license in Dubai, depending on the type of business you are running, government approvals, and document submission.

To start a tourism business in Dubai you must obtain a tourism license. Here's the general process to obtain it:

Decide between a Mainland License or a Free Zone License
Identify the specific business activity (tours, travel agency, etc.)
Prepare documents and secure initial approval from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
Register your company to DED
Obtain tourism license

Yes, your employees will need work visas sponsored by your company. The type of visa depends on their job role and nationality.

No, operating without a valid license is illegal and can lead to fines and penalties.

The validity period of a Tourism License is typically one year. To ensure continuous legal operation, businesses must initiate the renewal process before the expiration date. Renewal involves submitting updated documents and paying the applicable fees to extend the license.

Yes, foreigners can own and operate tourism businesses in Dubai. However, they must comply with the legal requirements, including obtaining the necessary approvals, licenses, and adhering to specific regulations set by the DTCM.